MORE than 100 schoolchildren held their own Commonwealth Games in Preston on Thursday, May 23.

Ten Preston schools are taking part in the city's Commonwealth "Mini" Games at West View Leisure Centre as part of the "Spirit of Friendship Festival".

The schools are each competing as a Commonwealth country for the event which has been organised by Preston City Council's Sports Development Team

Partners include Preston College, Sports Hall Athletics Association and the Commonwealth Games.

The budding athletes have trained hard for the events which were welcomed by Councillor Veronica Afrin the executive member for community and leisure. She said: "The Commonwealth 'Mini' Games is a great event for Preston.

"As well as improving their skills, the children are also learning all about the Commonwealth and their adopted countries.

"The project is a key part of our plans to encourage more and more children to take part in leisure activities and we hope they will all enjoy the day."

Judy Beeston, head teacher from Deepdale Junior School which has chosen Cyprus as their Commonwealth country for the games, said: "The children have worked really hard and put in lots of effort for the games.

"It's a fantastic event and will help the children to become more interested in the Commonwealth Games in Manchester."